Loading map...
GEA → TOU
Which side of the plane to sit from Nouméa Magenta Airport (Noumea) to Touho Airport (Touho)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers unparalleled views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed lagoon, the world's second-largest barrier reef, and the dramatic coastline where the mountains meet the Pacific.
New Caledonia Barrier Reef
Incredible bird's-eye view of the world's longest continuous barrier reef and its complex coral structures.
Amédée Lighthouse & Islets
Shortly after takeoff, look for the iconic lighthouse and numerous tiny white-sand cays dotted in the lagoon.
Canala & Thio Bays
Deep, turquoise bays that cut into the coastline, showing the contrast between the red soil and blue water.
Marine Life Sightings
During the winter months (July-September), keep an eye out for humpback whales breaching in the deep channels.
Fringing Reefs
Observe the vibrant neon-blue fringing reefs directly hugging the coastline as you approach Touho.
The right side is the definitive choice for this route. To avoid the sun's glare on the water, book a morning flight. The ATR aircraft used on this route have high wings, but sitting behind the engine (rows 7-12) provides the most unobstructed downward views of the reef patterns.
Mont Humboldt
View the second-highest peak in New Caledonia, often shrouded in mystic clouds within the southern range.
Chaîne Centrale
The rugged 'Central Chain' mountain range covered in dense, primary tropical rainforest and endemic flora.
Nickel Mining Sites
Notice the distinct red earth of the open-cut nickel mines, a major part of the local economy and landscape.
Hidden Waterfalls
Spot thin silver ribbons of water cascading down the steep western slopes of the mountain range.
Highland Mists
As the flight nears Touho, observe the microclimates created by the high peaks trapping coastal moisture.
Sit on the left if you prefer dramatic, moody mountain scenery and are interested in the geological diversity of the island's interior. Afternoon flights can offer beautiful golden light hitting the western slopes of the central range.
Distance: 206 km (128 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 21 min
Departure: GEA (-22.25830078125, 166.47300720214844)
Arrival: TOU (-20.790000915527344, 165.25900268554688)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.